Corgis: Fun Facts About the Internet’s New Favorite Breed

Our little fuzzy friend the Corgi is having a moment right now. From Buzzfeed to Instagram, Corgis rule the internet. Welsh for “dwarf dog”, the Corgi’s small size and adorable looks easily win our hearts. Let’s get to know these lovable dogs.

Here Are Some Facts About Corgis You May Not Know

The Corgi Has an Ancient History

Its lineage traces back well over 1000 years! It is speculated they were brought to Wales by migrating Celts. Other historic reports indicate they were present on Viking ships as well.

The Corgi Has Two Breeds

Did you know the Corgi is actually two separate breeds? Since the 1930s, the American Kennel Club has recognized the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi each as their own breed. The Pembroke is much more popular and more common. The British Royal Family has owned and loved Pembroke Welsh Corgis for over 70 years, contributing to their popularity.

There Are a Few Differences Between Each Corgi Breed

The popular Pembroke is lighter, with longer legs and pointier ears. Cardigan Welsh Corgis tend to be a bit larger and heavier. However, the most noticeable difference is the tail. Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a regular tail while Pembroke Welsh Corgis are typically born with no tail or a very short one, showing off the signature “Corgi rump”. Some Pembroke Corgis are born with a standard tail, which is considered a fault for showing purposes.

Corgis Are Part of the Herding Group

Both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgi are members of the Herding Group. Corgis are ranked as the 11th smartest breed of dog, displaying high levels of intelligence often found in breeds in the Herding Group. The Corgi is a small dog with huge herding instinct. Like other very intelligent dogs, Corgis benefit from starting training at an early age to avoid finding their own less desirable ways to stay entertained. They excel at games and sports such as agility, herding competitions, and flyball, which are great ways to challenge their active brains. A well-trained Corgi is also a great family dog, as their good nature and small size help them easily fit in with active households. Without necessary training, Corgis’ herding instinct may cause them to nip at the heels of their human family in an attempt to “herd” them to and fro.

Corgis Are Soaring in Popularity in the United States

One of the biggest reasons why we are seeing a rise in popularity of the Corgi breed in the United States is they are just so darned cute. In fact, they have become the 24th most popular dog breed in the country. Considering in 2013 there was actually a concern in Britain about low population numbers—that is pretty impressive!

Corgis Have a Distinct Smile

Corgis often look like they are smiling and happy to see you! They get their looks from an ancient type of dog called a Spitz. Other Spitz-type breeds that are close relatives to the Corgi are the Siberian husky, Schipperke, and Pomeranian.

One thing is certain; these little “dwarf dogs” will continue to rise in popularity on the internet this year, which is sure to increase their numbers in the United States. Better go out and snatch your own little Corgi while you can!